In the four years since my mom was diagnosed with ALS, I’ve come to believe that the strongest medicine she’s had is laughter. On the hardest days—when the pain is undeniable and the discomfort unavoidable—laughter has been the most powerful remedy we have.

My mom and I are lucky to share the same sense of humor, and laughing together has become one of our deepest connections.

This year will be my fourth time running the Chicago Marathon with Team ALS, and my message remains the same: it is a privilege to move your body. On days when I don’t feel like running, I remind myself that being able to run is a gift—and I run for those who can’t.

Once again, I’m asking for donations to support Team ALS. Every dollar goes directly toward research to find a cure for this devastating disease.

Below is just one of the many moments my mom and I have shared—a moment of laughing so hard it hurt. Thank you for supporting us, and for helping keep hope—and laughter—alive.